Full Breakdown
Miami (Ohio) RedHawks Chase Unbeaten Season Amid Superstitions
2/3/2026, 10:59:08 PM
Unprecedented Success in the 2025-26 Season
The Miami (Ohio) RedHawks are currently experiencing an exceptional season in men's college basketball, boasting a 22-0 record that places them alongside No. 1 Arizona as the only unbeaten teams in the 2025-26 season. Head coach Travis Steele, while not overtly superstitious, humorously admits to wearing lucky shirts at the behest of his daughter. The players, however, have their own rituals, such as senior guard Peter Suder wearing the same game socks and freshman Brant Byers consuming a bag of candy before each game.
Dominance on the Court
Miami leads the nation in scoring with an average of 93.7 points per game and ranks high in shooting efficiency, with a field goal percentage of 53.4%. The team has set a record for the longest winning streak in Mid-American Conference (MAC) history, largely due to the returning roster's chemistry and their ability to move past victories quickly. Their next challenge is against Buffalo, a team that nearly defeated them in a recent overtime game.
The Drive for Redemption
Last season, Miami faced a heartbreaking loss to Akron in the MAC tournament championship, despite holding a 92% win probability at one point. This loss has fueled the team's determination, with players expressing a strong desire to return and improve. Suder noted the team's connectivity and commitment to one another, which has been pivotal in their current success. The returning players' decision to stay has provided Miami with continuity, as they possess the sixth-most returning minutes in the nation.
Community Support and Attendance Surge
The excitement surrounding the RedHawks has led to increased attendance at their games. Their home arena, Millett Hall, sold out for a recent game against Northern Illinois, setting an attendance record of 10,640. This surge in support contrasts sharply with last season, where attendance was significantly lower. Byers remarked on the transformation from a quiet gym to a vibrant atmosphere, enhancing the overall game experience.
Focus on the Future
Despite the pressure of maintaining an unbeaten record, Steele emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present and controlling their destiny. He stated that winning three consecutive games in the MAC tournament would secure an automatic NCAA tournament bid, regardless of their current record. The team aims to peak at the right time, with an eye on performing well in March.
Criticism & Opposition
While the RedHawks enjoy their success, some critics caution against the potential pitfalls of focusing too heavily on perfection. They argue that the pressure to maintain an unbeaten record could lead to anxiety and affect performance in crucial moments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I know we'd just gone through probably the worst thing a team could go through basically, but we still felt the connectivity with us," Suder said.” — Peter Suder, Senior Guard
- “To have the crowd that we had last game is something that we're not even used to really, but it adds another element to the games and makes them even more fun than what they had been in the past,” — Brant Byers, Junior Guard
- “My biggest thing for us is that we can always control our own destiny,” — Travis Steele, Head Coach
As the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks continue their pursuit of an unbeaten season, their blend of talent, community support, and focus on teamwork positions them as a formidable contender in college basketball.
